Cholera

Definition

Cholera is an infectious disease that affects the intestinal tract.

Causes

Cholera is caused by a specific bacteria. This bacterium releases a toxin that causes rapid loss of fluids from the small intestines. Cholera is spread by ingesting food or water contaminated by fecal waste. It is common in countries that lack proper sewage disposal.

Risk Factors

Cholera is more common in children 2-5 years of age. Factors that increase your risk of getting cholera include:

Living or traveling in areas where cholera is present

Eating contaminated food or fluids

Eating raw or undercooked shellfish

Having blood group O

Having a weakened immune system

Having low levels of stomach acid

Symptoms

Symptoms of cholera begin quickly and can be severe. They include:

Sudden onset of painless, watery diarrhea without blood or pus

Thirst

Vomiting

Muscle cramps

The severity of symptoms ranges from mild, short-lived diarrhea to shock and death due to extreme fluid loss. Most symptoms occur one to three days after exposure.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. It is important to tell your doctor about any recent travel to areas where cholera is common. If cholera is suspected, stool and blood samples will be tested.

Treatment

Fluid Replacement

The first priority in treating cholera is to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through
diarrhea
. In severe cases, dehydration can be fatal if it is not treated right away. Hydration solutions can be given orally or through an IV.

Antibiotics

Antibiotic medications may help shorten the course of the disease in severe cases.
They may also be given to the people you live with to prevent them from becoming ill.

Prevention

Cholera Vaccine

Although it is not available in the US or Canada, a cholera vaccine is available in areas where cholera is common. Currently, these areas include parts of these countries and continents:

Asia

Africa

India

South America

Central America

If you will be visiting a country where cholera is present, you may be advised to receive the vaccination when you arrive at your destination.

Careful Eating Habits

You can prevent cholera by avoiding contaminated food and fluids in areas where cholera occurs.

When traveling in areas where cholera is common, you are advised to:

Drink only bottled or boiled water

Eat only well-cooked foods that are served hot

Avoid all raw or undercooked shellfish

Avoid salads

Avoid raw vegetables that you have not peeled yourself

Carry oral rehydration solution (ORS) and know how to use it if you develop severe diarrhea

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.